A MERCILESS and manipulative bully has been handed a lengthy sentence behind bars for repeatedly raping a young child.
Christopher McConnell was found guilty of four counts rape of a child following an eight-day trial at Liverpool Crown Court.
The case against McConnell began in September 2021 when Cheshire Police received reports that he had raped and assaulted a young child.
The caller reported that the offences took place over a four-year period and involved a child under the age of 13.
It was found that the monster had raped the victim a number of times, threatening them and even placing a pillow over their face in the process to hide their tears.
Officers built up a case file of evidence against McConnell, and he was charged in connection with the allegations.
Despite this, he cruelly denied the offences and made the victim and their family relive the horrific experience in court during his trial.
The 36-year-old, formally from Warrington, and now of Prestbury Drive in Bredbury, Stockport, returned to court this morning, Thursday, where he was sentenced to 18 years in prison
Following the sentencing, DC Irene Cadman, who led the investigation said: “McConnell’s conviction is testament to the courage and bravery shown by the victim and their family throughout this investigation.
“McConnell is a violent and manipulative bully, who subjected his victim to a prolonged period of sexual abuse and violence.
“He repeatedly threatened his victim and placed a pillow over their face if they became upset while he was raping them.
“Even when faced with all the evidence against him, he refused to admit his guilt.
“Instead, he chose to make the victim’s family sit through the hearing and listen to the horrific offences that he committed.
“Thankfully, as a result of the statements provided by the victim and the evidence we gathered, the jury have seen through his lies and he is now being held accountable for his actions.”
DI Andrew Wallace, of the Northern Public Protection Team, added: “This has been a complex investigation, and I would like to commend DC Cadman for her dedication and commitment throughout the case.
“No-one should have to experience what this victim has been through, and if anything can be achieved from this case, I hope that it encourages other victims to come forward.
“Cheshire Police takes any allegation of sexual offences extremely seriously, and any allegation will be thoroughly investigated, with the wishes and needs of the victim as our main priority.”
To report any sexual offence, call Cheshire Police on 101 or visit cheshire.police.uk/ro/report/rsa/alpha-v1/v1/rape-sexual-assault-other-sexual-offences/%20
Information can also be given anonymously by calling Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
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